A Storybook Journey Along the Rhine

Your journey includes:

• Canal-lined Amsterdam and optional tulip season experiences
• Cologne’s soaring Gothic cathedral and Rhineland culture
• Scenic sailing through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge
• Romantic Heidelberg and its hilltop castle ruins
• Strasbourg’s cathedral square and La Petite France district
• The traditions and landscapes of Germany’s Black Forest

Each day includes guided experiences designed to provide cultural context and meaningful engagement, while still allowing time for independent discovery.

(Complete day-by-day details appear in the itinerary section.)

This sailing has been structured to provide a comprehensive and thoughtfully inclusive experience. The goal is not to overwhelm you with options, but to create a journey where most of what you need is already seamlessly arranged.

Your cruise includes:

• Seven nights aboard the Avalon View
• Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Avalon Choice® sightseeing in every port
• Professional Cruise Director and Adventure Host
• Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
• Porterage for one suitcase per guest (within guidelines)

Meals reflect regional flavors, service is attentive yet relaxed, and the onboard environment remains polished without feeling formal.

River cruising offers a distinct cadence that differs from ocean cruising or land touring. Mornings may begin docked in the heart of a historic town, just steps from market squares and cafés. Other days unfold gently as you sail past terraced vineyards and castle ruins, watching the landscape change from the comfort of the ship.

You can expect:

• Docking in the heart of cities and towns
• Minimal transfers and walkable destinations
• A balance of guided structure and personal time
• Relaxed evenings with regional entertainment or scenic cruising

The onboard atmosphere is refined but never formal. Public spaces are designed to feel open and welcoming, always oriented toward the river views.

Avalon also contributes to sustainability initiatives such as Trees4Travel, reflecting a commitment to responsible tourism.

CLASSIC

• Off-the-beaten-path guided walking tour through cobblestone streets
  OR
• Guided canal cruise past Golden Age homes and historic waterways

(Optional Keukenhof Gardens may be available during tulip season — not included.)

ACTIVE

• Guided bike ride through Cologne with the Adventure Host

CLASSIC

• Guided walking tour of Cologne’s Jewish heritage sites
  OR
• Guided city walk featuring Cologne’s Gothic cathedral

(Scenic sailing through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge is included for all guests.)

In Rüdesheim:

ACTIVE

• Guided vineyard hike with Rüdesheimer coffee tasting

CLASSIC

• Guided visit to the Mechanical Music Museum with Rüdesheimer coffee tasting

DISCOVERY

• Guided visit to Johannisberg Castle’s historic wooden-barrel cellar with wine tasting

ACTIVE

• Guided walk along Heidelberg’s Philosophers’ Way

CLASSIC

• Guided visit to Schwetzingen Palace
  OR
• Guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, including the famed Great Vat wine barrel

ACTIVE

• Guided bike tour of Strasbourg

CLASSIC

• Guided city sightseeing tour including:

  • Strasbourg Cathedral
  • La Petite France district

(Optional Maginot Line or Alsace wine country excursions may be available — not included.)

ACTIVE

• Guided E-bike tour through the Black Forest

CLASSIC

• Full-day guided Black Forest excursion including:

  • Vogtsbauernhof open-air museum
  • Traditional demonstrations
    OR
• Guided tour of Freiburg’s medieval city center

(Optional Colmar excursion may be available — not included.)

Each port includes at least one guided excursion — often multiple options — allowing you to tailor your daily experience to your preferred pace and interests.

You are never required to purchase optional excursions to fully experience the itinerary. The included Avalon Choice® experiences provide comprehensive cultural access throughout the journey.

To assist with overall planning, the following estimates provide a general guide for common travel expenses associated with this journey. Actual costs may vary depending on departure city, booking timing, and hotel selection.

Estimated Airfare (U.S. to Europe)
Roundtrip economy airfare to Amsterdam with return from Basel or Zürich typically averages $1,200–$1,500 per person when booked in advance.

Pre- or Post-Cruise Hotel Nights
City-center hotels in Amsterdam, Basel, or Zürich generally range between $350–$450 per night for a well-located property.

Avalon Cruise Protection (Optional)
Travel protection is strongly recommended for international travel.

Estimated cost:

• $479 per person – Deluxe Stateroom
• $519 per person – Panorama Suite

Coverage may include:

• Trip cancellation or interruption
• Emergency medical coverage while traveling
• Baggage loss or delay protection

Travel protection typically becomes effective on the date the plan cost is paid in addition to any required deposits.

Our involvement extends well beyond securing your reservation. You will receive:

• Clear milestone reminders and deadline tracking
• Documentation guidance and review
• Coordination for air and extensions if requested
• Pre-departure preparation support
• A knowledgeable advocate should you need assistance

Our approach is advisor-led, steady, and detail-oriented — allowing you to focus fully on the experience itself.

The Romantic Rhine is not simply a cruise itinerary. It is a journey through layered history, living culture, and landscapes that have inspired travelers for generations.

With careful planning, trusted suppliers, and attentive guidance, this experience offers both inspiration and reassurance — a balance of beauty and structure that allows you to travel with confidence.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard.